Denial. We all experience it. But ladies, you cannot do your body justice by wearing clothes that obviously do not fit. I know, I know, I have also had those moments when I want to trick myself into thinking my favorite jeans fit when they are really ripping at the seams. If you question it, then it's a done deal. Salvation Army is always taking donations.

Luckily for me, StyleWeek tickets were up for grabs at my internship and duh...I am obvi going to snag some (yes, I do abbrev things like most young-ins  do, although I know I am too old to do so. Whatevs). So, StyleWeek is the New England version of Fashion Week, that comes around a couple times a year. It was created in 2009 with the intent on connecting buyers and media with emerging local design talent. Some designers that were on the hit-show Project Runway showcased their collections in these fashion shows.

I was able to go to two shows, dressed to the nines, with my best friend and mother by my side. Walking into the Biltmore Hotel in downtown Providence, I felt like a celebrity, well in the media world, anyway. I got my own press name tag and everything. There was a photographer greeting you as soon as you walked in, arranged on a red carpet, of course. Looking around, I could appreciate being in a room with women who clearly put as much effort into their appearance as I do. Trust me, walking into a room as the over-dressed girl is not an easy feeling, more awkward than anything. With my chin up and four-inch heels down, I make my way to my seat, conveniently front row so I can see the models and fashions perfectly.

Carissa Lynne Designs was my favorite designer of all I saw. Overall, her collection is wearable to a variety of body types, including mine. I have a curvy figure, so wearing dresses is a struggle. Typically, the hem is higher in the back than the front, because the fabric needs to cover all of my backside. With Carissa Lynne's designs, specifically her dresses, I think they work well with curvaceous females.

Above, you can see a snippet of the show, with designer Carissa Lynne holding hands with one of her fabulous models.  Let me break down some of her fashions with pictures I took. 

Fit and Flare- These dresses are your friend. In fact, they are a go-to for me because of the flouncy design. It extenuates the smallest part of your body, your waist, and creates a flirty silhouette. This dress, in particular, has a thick strap and high, almost boat neckline, which is more conservative considering the amount of leg that is exposed. It is sexy but classy. It is a comfortable fit because it isn't a form fitting dress. You shouldn't have to worry about your goods falling out of the dress, wear-ability of the garment is important. The balance is what draws me to this style. This shade works well on olive skin tones like mine, plus this burgundy color is perfect for fall/winter. Maybe pair it with a beige or black blazer or leather jacket for a visual contrast to the whole look.



Double breasted anything- This was my favorite garment of the whole show. If I could, I would have bought it that night. Not only is the color one of my favorites to wear, the shape of this dress is adorable and timeless. The double breasted top of the dress is what makes it, hands down. It is conservative but authoritative. Even if this color of the dress were an army green, it would work. Anytime there is a design similar to this, it fits really well (and if it doesn't, I would suggest bringing it to a tailor, it is worth your time and money). Once again, the flouncy bottom works well with curvy body types. It's not only comfortable to wear, but a show stopper, for sure. You'll feel like you're Jennifer Love Hewitt walking into a college house party like the scene in Can't Hardly Wait. If dresses aren't your thing, you should consider getting a double breasted jacket, trench coat or blazer in your closet. I would pair it with black jeans or jeggings, or even a funky pair of leggings. It is a polished and trendy look that everyone, male or female, should own.    

Mix and Match- The whole concept of 'leather and lace' is something I love. With this design (sorry for the distorted picture) she paired a crop faux-leather pant with a chunky fur jacket. Perfection. These pants can be tricky however, just make sure you get the correct size. Stretch pants work well with my shape. Sometimes I may have to buy a size bigger to ensure comfort-ability. Being 5'9, finding long enough pants can be tricky, that's why I like cropped pants so much. Less work for me. With the pumps and your hair pulled back in a messy bun, it completes the look. This is great outfit for a night in the city or an upscale bar. Whenever I wear tighter pants, I make sure to wear a looser top (this is the balance concept I told you about earlier). Not only does it make me most comfortable but it lets me pick and choose what parts I want to show off. For example, if I am feeling bloated, this outfit would be perfect because it would hide any muffin topage  that may be happening. It is all about being aware of your imperfections, and working with them instead of fighting them and losing miserably.